News & Press Releases

Lawmakers Explore New Advanced Aide Position for Post-Acute Care

Apr 16, 2014

Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-PA) and Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced the “Improving Care for Vulnerable Older Citizens through Workforce Advancement Act of 2014” last week to establish six new demonstration projects in long-term care. Two of the proposed projects would allocate funds for the training of advanced certified nursing assistants. The idea is to empower these direct-care workers to take on “deeper clinical responsibilities” as well as promote smoother care transitions and reduce rehospitalizations. Participants in the programs would report on outcomes, employee satisfaction and rehospitalization rates.

According to Rep. Cartwright, “This legislation would help improve the care offered by direct-care workers and lower care costs for both older Americans and the health care industry.”

Participation in the demonstration projects will be open to nursing facilities, home health agencies and hospitals.